How to Replace a Sprinkler Head
Turn off the water, dig around the broken head, unscrew the old head counterclockwise, wrap the new head's threads with Teflon tape, and screw it in clockwise until snug. The whole job takes about 15–20 minutes and costs under $15. Most pop-up sprinkler heads use standard half-inch threaded connections, making this one of the easiest irrigation repairs a homeowner can do.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
Replacement Sprinkler Head
Match the brand and type if possible, or bring the old head to the store. Note whether it's a spray head, rotor, or rotary nozzle.
Small Garden Trowel or Shovel
For digging around the head to access the connection beneath the soil.
Teflon Tape
Wrap the threads to prevent leaks. Available at any hardware store for a couple of dollars.
Rags or Paper Towels
To clean threads and wipe up any water or debris before installing the new head.
Step-by-Step Replacement Process
Step 1: Turn Off the Water
Locate your irrigation system shutoff valve (usually near the backflow preventer or water meter) and turn it off to prevent accidental activation.
Step 2: Dig Around the Head
Use your trowel to carefully dig a hole about 6–8 inches in diameter and deep enough to see where the head connects to the pipe or fitting below.
Step 3: Remove the Old Head
Grip the body of the sprinkler head and turn counterclockwise to unscrew it from the threaded fitting. If stuck, use pliers or a strap wrench carefully.
Step 4: Clean the Fitting
Remove any old Teflon tape or debris from the threads of the fitting or riser. Wipe clean with a rag before installing the new head.
Step 5: Apply Teflon Tape
Wrap 3–4 turns of Teflon tape clockwise around the threads of your new sprinkler head, pulling the tape tight as you wrap so it sticks to itself.
Step 6: Install the New Head
Thread the new head into the fitting by hand clockwise. Tighten until snug — don't overtighten. The head should sit level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
Step 7: Test and Adjust
Turn the water back on and run that zone manually. Check for leaks around the new head. Adjust the spray pattern if needed using the adjustment screw on top.
Step 8: Backfill and Clean Up
Once you've confirmed no leaks and proper operation, backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently around the head.
Common Problems During Replacement
The Head Won't Unscrew
Dirt and corrosion can freeze threads. Try spraying penetrating oil (WD-40) and waiting a few minutes. Hold the fitting below with one wrench while turning the head with another to prevent twisting the pipe.
Fitting Breaks When Removing
Old plastic fittings can crack. If this happens, you'll need to dig deeper and replace the fitting or cut and repair the pipe. This turns a simple job into a more involved repair.
Water Gushes When Removing
The water wasn't fully off, or there's residual pressure in the line. Turn off the water completely and let the pressure drain before continuing.
New Head Leaks at the Base
Either not enough Teflon tape, a cross-threaded connection, or debris on the threads. Remove the head, clean everything, reapply tape, and reinstall more carefully.
When to Call a Professional
While replacing a sprinkler head is straightforward, some situations call for professional help:
Pipe or Fitting Is Damaged
Cracked fittings or broken pipes require cutting and gluing PVC, which is more complex than a simple head swap.
Can't Find a Matching Head
If the system is old or uses unusual components, a professional may have better access to parts or know compatible alternatives.
Multiple Heads Are Failing
Several failing heads may indicate a larger problem like pressure issues or age-related deterioration throughout the system.
Not Comfortable With the Repair
There's no shame in calling for help. A professional can do the job quickly and correctly the first time.
Professional Sprinkler Repair Services
For more than 25 years, Complete Lawn Care has been helping Tulsa-area homeowners maintain their irrigation systems. Our services include head replacement, valve repairs, leak detection, controller troubleshooting, and complete system inspections. We stock common parts on our trucks and can often complete repairs in a single visit.
The Bottom Line
15–20 Minute Job
Turn off the water, dig around the head, unscrew the old, and install the new. Simple and quick.
Always Use Teflon Tape
Wrap the threads on the new head to prevent leaks at the connection.
Match the Replacement Head
Match the original or bring the old head to the store for comparison before purchasing.
Test Before Backfilling
Always run the zone and confirm no leaks and proper spray pattern before filling the hole back in.
Need Help With Sprinkler Repairs?
Complete Lawn Care offers professional irrigation repair throughout Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, Bixby, and surrounding communities. Whether you need a single head replaced or a complete system overhaul, we can help. Proudly serving the Tulsa metro area since 2000.
Phone: (918) 605-4646 | Email: wecare@completelawncaretulsa.com
